Carpobrotus rossii’s name is derived from the Ancient Greek words: ‘karpos’ (fruit) and ‘brotos’ (edible) and after a 19th century botanical collector named William Ross. It’s native to Tasmania and was used as a food (bush tucker) and therapeutic agent by indigenous peoples and early European settlers. While it is found growing wild on coastal sand dunes, we planted it on our farm where it grows happily as a ground cover. The juice from the fleshy leaves is similar to aloe vera and that’s exactly why we harvest it for use in our rosy and maritime skin care soap. According to research Carpobrotus rossi, aka Native Pigface, contains a number of pharmacologically active polyphenolic compounds. This has significance for cosmetics like our soap as it’s:
- Mildly astringent: the tannins in the plant cause a benign contraction of skin proteins. People with acne are often advised to use astringents if they have oily skin;
- Anti-inflammatory: it has the potential to ward off skin problems caused by bacteria in wounds, mosquito bites and sunburn. It was traditionally used as a quick remedy for jellyfish stings;
- Antioxidative: it contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, which inhibit oxidation and the production of free radicals that cause cell damage.
Interestingly, the scientific studies of this plant concentrate on it’s phytoregenerative capacity. It has the ability to absorb heavy metals from sites contaminated with heavy metals - let’s hope that isn’t your skin! This hardy succulent seems to need much further investigation to realise its full potential. Connect with this brilliant plant via our rosy skin care soap!
